How to Protect Your Home and Family from Melbourne’s Storm Season

Melbourne storm season is almost here. If you haven’t already taken steps to protect your family, and your property from the dangers of unpredictable weather, then now’s the time to start. Your home is more than just the most valuable asset you own, it’s also a source of comfort and security for your family. When the winds start to blow and lightning strikes, it’s important to make sure that you and your loved ones feel secure and protected.

Here, we’ll outline just a few of the most important tips you should follow when it comes to preparing your property for storm season. Remember, the quicker you start taking preventative action, the greater your peace of mind will be when the weather starts to change.

1.Â Â Â Â Invest in Roof Restoration

Your roof is by far the most important part of your home to think about when it comes to protecting yourself and your family against storm season. Not only will your roof protect you against rough winds and rains, it will also ensure that you’re comfortable and warm no matter the weather. Take the time to inspect your roof thoroughly, and decide whether it’s strong enough to hold up to the worst conditions, or whether it may be in need of a roof restoration.

Older roofs, or those with significant damage will need restoration to prevent leaks and expensive damage during storm season. The right roof restoration project will also prevent any leaks from transforming into puddles that could cause your roof to collapse. Consider paying for a roof coating too, to seal your property and protect it against water damage.

2.Â Â Â Â Clear out Gutters and Clutter

While you’re examining your roof for signs of damage, take the time to clear any debris or dirt from your gutters and drains. While this might not be a very appealing task, it’s crucial to making sure that your gutters don’t overflow, and place additional pressure on your roof.

Even simple debris like dirty and leaves can block drains easily, and when too much moisture backs up, it can leak into the walls and roof, causing additional damage around your home. Making sure that your gutters are clear of any potential build-up will help to reduce your risk of water damage.

Remember to go outside and check for any loose items that may be strewn around your lawn or garden too. Although you might not worry about these items during calmer days, when storm season rolls around, loose items can easily be thrown up into the air and smashed against your house, leading to broken tiles and glass.

3.Â Â Â Â Prepare your Emergency Storm Kit

Finally, make sure that your family is prepared with an emergency storm kit that you can use to keep yourself safe and comfortable in case of an emergency. The storm kit you build should have enough items in it to sustain your entire family for three days, if your essential services are disrupted because of dangerous weather.

Some of the things that you should include in your storm kit include:

A torch, with plenty of batteries or a “wind-up” function for energy

Any necessary medications or special items for all family members

Important cash and documents kept in waterproof bags

A fully-stocked first aid kit

A portable radio

An emergency home plan, which features your exit routes, and emergency contact numbers

Your mobile phone, a spare battery, and a charge

A change of clothes

Drinking water and plenty of non-perishable foods

For more information on being storm ready, visit stormsafe.com.au, the SES and NRMA’s website.